Why the Self Determination Program is a Great Option for Some Families

By Larry Landauer, Executive Director

SINCE JULY 1, 2021, WHEN CALIFORNIA’S SELF DETERMINATION PROGRAM (SDP) became available to most of those served by a regional center, the program has seen only a tiny percentage of eligible individuals choose it as an option.

Here in Orange County, as of mid-December, just 103 of the nearly 24,000 people with developmental disabilities we serve were in SDP. Similarly low participation rates are reflected in statewide figures and other regional centers. With inspiring successes like those of Jeffrey Baek, the subject of this issue’s cover story, one might wonder why SDP has not been more popular.

As of mid-December, just 103 of the nearly 24,000 people with developmental disabilities we serve were in SDP.

One reason, almost certainly, is the program is still relatively new. While RCOC has actively shared the program, many of those we serve have long-standing, trusting relationships with RCOC and existing service providers. It’s understandable they would favor continuing the traditional model of services that has successfully met their needs for decades.

It’s also possible that uncertainties and stresses of the pandemic made some individuals and families less interested in making other major life changes.

We’ve also heard from families that the very detailed rules the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) has created for SDP have been extremely challenging.

While RCOC has proactively developed tools, such as an SDP budgeting spreadsheet, to assist Orange County participants in creating and maintaining their SDP budgets, the commitment of time and effort can still be significant.

The very detailed rules the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) has created for SDP have been extremely challenging.

For some, such as the Baek family, who are accustomed to managing businesses or organizations and comfortable recruiting and supervising direct care staff, the benefits of SDP – such as greater freedom and flexibility – make it all worthwhile.

At RCOC, it comes down to the fact that no two persons with disabilities and no two families are alike. That is why the IPP/IFSP (Individual Program Plan/Individual Family Service Plan) process was created decades ago. It’s why we at RCOC embrace person-centered thinking and person-centered planning for each individual and family we serve.

Since all planning and service decisions are based on individual needs and preferences, we know that the number of people who choose any particular option is not necessarily a measure of its value.

No two persons with disabilities and no two families are alike.

While we would never pressure anyone to try SDP, we fully support those who do. And we’re excited to see how this new option is helping many to achieve their individual potential.

If you think SDP might be right for you, be sure to visit RCOC’s website to learn more.